The World of Late Antiquity

A remarkable study in social and cultural change that explains how and why the late antique world (circa 150–750CE) came to differ from "classical civilization."

The first century CE was one of momentous events: the end of the Roman Empire, the rise of Christianity across Western Europe, and the disappearance of Persia from the Near East. An era in which the most deep-rooted ancient institutions disappeared, creating divergent legacies that are still present today. Renowned historian Peter Brown examines these changes and the reactions to them to show that the late antiquity was an outstanding period of new beginnings with far-reaching impacts.

The result is a lucid answer to a crucial question in world history: how the exceptionally homogenous Mediterranean world of the first century CE became divided into the three mutually estranged societies of the Middle Ages: Catholic Western Europe, Byzantium, and the Islamic world. Brown’s remarkable study in social and cultural transformation explains how and why the late antique world came to differ from the “classical civilization” of the Greeks and Romans. Featuring a new preface and updated with color illustrations throughout, The World of Late Antiquity demonstrates that we still have much to learn from this enduring and intriguing period of history.

• 130 illustrations, 119 in color

A fully illustrated paperback edition … reproduces Brown's landmark study for the next generation of readers. — The New Criterion

“Sensitive, stimulating and learned …full of vivid imagery and impartial enthusiasm.” — Sunday Times

“Peter Brown’s elegant and provocative text is beautifully supported by often unfamiliar illustrations.” — Times Literary Supplement

“Few scholars writing today can match [Brown’s] knack of conveying just why certain issues were so engrossing to the men and women of the ancient world.” — History Today